Substance Use Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
I also provide support to those who are managing substance use, mental health challenges and navigating life experiences while trying to accomplish personal goals in the process.
I find that it can be challenging, trying to figure out where you are presently and where you are trying to go. While navigating current life experiences, the challenges can cause frustration, with a need to seek freedom, sometimes choosing the unhealthy ways to cope. Sometimes we need a space and a support person that can help us navigate through these challenges and find healthy ways to cope while unpacking the known and unknown trauma that exists. Being able to have a safe space and a support, not only empowers us, but holds us accountable to those things that we set out to do and reminding us that we are not alone.
I also provide support to those who are managing substance use, mental health challenges and navigating life experiences while trying to accomplish personal goals in the process.
I find that it can be challenging, trying to figure out where you are presently and where you are trying to go. While navigating current life experiences, the challenges can cause frustration, with a need to seek freedom, sometimes choosing the unhealthy ways to cope. Sometimes we need a space and a support person that can help us navigate through these challenges and find healthy ways to cope while unpacking the known and unknown trauma that exists. Being able to have a safe space and a support, not only empowers us, but holds us accountable to those things that we set out to do and reminding us that we are not alone.
Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center
LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions.
Sandstone Care provides a full continuum of care for clients dealing with substance use, addiction, and mental health issues. Treatment for adolescents (ages 13 to 18) and young adults (ages 18 to 30) includes Residential Treatment, Day Treatment (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and General Outpatient (OP) programming.
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions.
Sandstone Care provides a full continuum of care for clients dealing with substance use, addiction, and mental health issues. Treatment for adolescents (ages 13 to 18) and young adults (ages 18 to 30) includes Residential Treatment, Day Treatment (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and General Outpatient (OP) programming.
I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I create a safe environment where patients can explore how current and past experiences, such as relationships and family dynamics, may be impacting their well-being, and where patients can develop trust and insights that helps to harness their strengths, and reduce distress so they may lead more satisfying lives.
I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I create a safe environment where patients can explore how current and past experiences, such as relationships and family dynamics, may be impacting their well-being, and where patients can develop trust and insights that helps to harness their strengths, and reduce distress so they may lead more satisfying lives.
Paige Boser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
With years of experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, substance use, and self-esteem, I especially enjoy supporting women through various stages of life, including new and expecting mothers.
I utilize multiple evidence based theoretical orientations that encourage healing mind and body. All paths to healing are unique, therefore my approach to therapy is fluid and therapy goals are made collaboratively.
With years of experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, substance use, and self-esteem, I especially enjoy supporting women through various stages of life, including new and expecting mothers.
I utilize multiple evidence based theoretical orientations that encourage healing mind and body. All paths to healing are unique, therefore my approach to therapy is fluid and therapy goals are made collaboratively.
I specialize in working with individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health concerns, including depression, trauma, and anxiety.
If you feel stuck—whether in addiction, procrastination, anxiety, or depression—you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and felt like just talking wasn’t enough. You want real change, not just a place to vent. I take an action-oriented, supportive approach to help you break unhealthy patterns, build healthier habits, and create a life that feels more fulfilling. If you’re looking for a therapist who truly listens but also helps you take meaningful steps forward, I’d love to support you on your journey.
I specialize in working with individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health concerns, including depression, trauma, and anxiety.
If you feel stuck—whether in addiction, procrastination, anxiety, or depression—you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and felt like just talking wasn’t enough. You want real change, not just a place to vent. I take an action-oriented, supportive approach to help you break unhealthy patterns, build healthier habits, and create a life that feels more fulfilling. If you’re looking for a therapist who truly listens but also helps you take meaningful steps forward, I’d love to support you on your journey.
Scott W. Beckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Scott focuses on how these questions contribute to substance use disorders and how to develop a strong foundation for recovery.
Scott focuses on helping successful career and family-driven individuals achieve their goals to create a well-rounded and balanced life. Scott believes that many day-to-day troubles can be linked back to broader uncertainties and developmental traumas that contribute to insecurities and doubt. Scott specializes in working with clients to create specific treatment plans and goals to address these seemingly unanswerable questions and traumas using evidenced-based practices such as:
Scott focuses on how these questions contribute to substance use disorders and how to develop a strong foundation for recovery.
Scott focuses on helping successful career and family-driven individuals achieve their goals to create a well-rounded and balanced life. Scott believes that many day-to-day troubles can be linked back to broader uncertainties and developmental traumas that contribute to insecurities and doubt. Scott specializes in working with clients to create specific treatment plans and goals to address these seemingly unanswerable questions and traumas using evidenced-based practices such as:
David Gasper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I've worked in treatment centers for substance use in both professionals and dual diagnosis programs.
Do you feel like you've lost your way? Perhaps you've experienced a recent job change, divorce, or other life event, and the future seems unbearably uncertain? Maybe your use of substances has taken you so far from your values you don't know who you are anymore? When you work with me we’ll combine a science-based therapeutic approach with a deep love of philosophy to help you find a fuller understanding of yourself and your world. Together, we'll use that robust understanding to identify the gap between the life you have and the life you want and develop tools and goals to close that gap.
I've worked in treatment centers for substance use in both professionals and dual diagnosis programs.
Do you feel like you've lost your way? Perhaps you've experienced a recent job change, divorce, or other life event, and the future seems unbearably uncertain? Maybe your use of substances has taken you so far from your values you don't know who you are anymore? When you work with me we’ll combine a science-based therapeutic approach with a deep love of philosophy to help you find a fuller understanding of yourself and your world. Together, we'll use that robust understanding to identify the gap between the life you have and the life you want and develop tools and goals to close that gap.
Tracy Magers Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CDWF, EMDR
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional training for specialties in trauma (EMDR and ART trained) substance use issues for individuals/family and shame resilience( Brené Brown).
It's not easy to make a decision about needing some clarity and support. No one received a playbook on life. You may be struggling with perfectionism, work, family, relationships or a general sense of malaise or anxiety/depression. You may have tried to cope in ways that now are causing problems. Even highly accountable professionals face these issues. Education and success offer no immunity to the everyday issues of life. Most of us look good on the outside.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional training for specialties in trauma (EMDR and ART trained) substance use issues for individuals/family and shame resilience( Brené Brown).
It's not easy to make a decision about needing some clarity and support. No one received a playbook on life. You may be struggling with perfectionism, work, family, relationships or a general sense of malaise or anxiety/depression. You may have tried to cope in ways that now are causing problems. Even highly accountable professionals face these issues. Education and success offer no immunity to the everyday issues of life. Most of us look good on the outside.
Whether you are reliving past trauma, plagued by worrisome thoughts, concerned about your relationship or substance use, or feeling generally dissatisfied in life, I will provide an empathic ear, support, and guidance to help you meet these challenges and make the life changes you desire.
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients of diverse backgrounds and a spectrum of mental health concerns. I have expertise treating PTSD/trauma, anxiety, mood, anger, and substance use issues. I am well-versed in a variety of treatment approaches that are supported by existing research, which can be tailored to client's needs, preferences, and goals.
Whether you are reliving past trauma, plagued by worrisome thoughts, concerned about your relationship or substance use, or feeling generally dissatisfied in life, I will provide an empathic ear, support, and guidance to help you meet these challenges and make the life changes you desire.
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients of diverse backgrounds and a spectrum of mental health concerns. I have expertise treating PTSD/trauma, anxiety, mood, anger, and substance use issues. I am well-versed in a variety of treatment approaches that are supported by existing research, which can be tailored to client's needs, preferences, and goals.
Overall, I view myself as generalist who is comfortable working with a range of concerns including: individual and couples counseling, grief and loss, coping with substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, women's issues, relationship conflict and concerns, and separation and/or divorce.
I am currently taking on new clients throughout Illinois via telehealth appointments. Seeking a therapist takes courage and demonstrates a readiness to move forward in new directions. I see myself as a catalyst for exploration into various areas of your life, such as relationship patterns or emotional barriers that may be impacting you in negative ways. I believe it is important to work collaboratively and to understand these parts of your identity/experience. It is important to find the right fit for this work, so I encourage you to reach out for a consultation.
Overall, I view myself as generalist who is comfortable working with a range of concerns including: individual and couples counseling, grief and loss, coping with substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, women's issues, relationship conflict and concerns, and separation and/or divorce.
I am currently taking on new clients throughout Illinois via telehealth appointments. Seeking a therapist takes courage and demonstrates a readiness to move forward in new directions. I see myself as a catalyst for exploration into various areas of your life, such as relationship patterns or emotional barriers that may be impacting you in negative ways. I believe it is important to work collaboratively and to understand these parts of your identity/experience. It is important to find the right fit for this work, so I encourage you to reach out for a consultation.
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including personal/relationship/work dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, ADHD, disordered eating and feeling stuck in life.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Nakisher's creative style helps him work well with people struggling with various issues including personal/relationship/work dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, ADHD, disordered eating and feeling stuck in life.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Meet Our Substance Use Therapists
Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions.
My training includes personal study of psychoanalytic theory and Jungian depth psychology, as well as a decade of my own therapy. I take a body and emotion focused, experiential, and relational approach to therapy and am a Level 1 AEDP therapist. I also utilize other evidence-based modalities such as IFS, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT, and ACT in my work.
Many of my clients have experienced various forms of relational trauma — including wounding that has occurred in intimate relationships or in childhood — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find healthier ways of dealing with addiction or problematic substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and other challenging emotions.
My training includes personal study of psychoanalytic theory and Jungian depth psychology, as well as a decade of my own therapy. I take a body and emotion focused, experiential, and relational approach to therapy and am a Level 1 AEDP therapist. I also utilize other evidence-based modalities such as IFS, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT, and ACT in my work.
Natalia Gurmendi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Trauma, Substance Use, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Racial/Cultural Identity, Multicultural Relationships, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Life Transitions, Coping and Communication Skills, and more.
I use evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I also use a person-centered, strengths-based approaches to create an empowering and welcoming environment for my clients.
I specialize in supporting clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Sexual Trauma, Substance Use, Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Racial/Cultural Identity, Multicultural Relationships, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Life Transitions, Coping and Communication Skills, and more.
I use evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I also use a person-centered, strengths-based approaches to create an empowering and welcoming environment for my clients.
Danielle Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective. These approaches help clients navigate their challenges and foster personal growth and healing.
I specialize in working with clients and families affected by substance use disorders, employing a relational approach to address and treat the whole person.
I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices, all from a trauma-informed perspective. These approaches help clients navigate their challenges and foster personal growth and healing.
Elba Iris Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
I am a substance use/mental health therapist and coach who specializes in individual and group therapy/education and collaboration with community resources to better support clients in making long-term changes.
Are you in a place where you feel the need to make changes in your life to improve your happiness and overall well-being? Maybe it's addressing your social drug/alcohol use, or wondering why you feel stuck, and feel the need to explore your intrinsic wants/needs. I believe there's an importance in empowering one's spirit, identifying blocks, and in learning new skills to strengthen one's ability to make wanted changes. I focus on enhancing existing strengths, encouraging mindfulness, and building coping skills to support these changes.
I am a substance use/mental health therapist and coach who specializes in individual and group therapy/education and collaboration with community resources to better support clients in making long-term changes.
Are you in a place where you feel the need to make changes in your life to improve your happiness and overall well-being? Maybe it's addressing your social drug/alcohol use, or wondering why you feel stuck, and feel the need to explore your intrinsic wants/needs. I believe there's an importance in empowering one's spirit, identifying blocks, and in learning new skills to strengthen one's ability to make wanted changes. I focus on enhancing existing strengths, encouraging mindfulness, and building coping skills to support these changes.
I use a collaborative and client centered approach to treat issues such as grief, loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use/abuse and it's affect on the family, infidelity, intimacy and post divorce issues.
Finding support and a space to process and organize is something that should be available to everyone especially with everything going on around us. Taking the step to start or restart therapy may feel daunting, but these first steps will build an important space that you deserve to have for yourself. In my practice, I create a space where clients feel truly understood and supported without judgment. Whether you're looking to improve communication, deepen compassion, or break through difficult patterns, I offer personalized approach tailored to your unique needs.
I use a collaborative and client centered approach to treat issues such as grief, loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use/abuse and it's affect on the family, infidelity, intimacy and post divorce issues.
Finding support and a space to process and organize is something that should be available to everyone especially with everything going on around us. Taking the step to start or restart therapy may feel daunting, but these first steps will build an important space that you deserve to have for yourself. In my practice, I create a space where clients feel truly understood and supported without judgment. Whether you're looking to improve communication, deepen compassion, or break through difficult patterns, I offer personalized approach tailored to your unique needs.
My expertise is in providing culturally competent therapy to teens and adults dealing with substance use, anger/stress management, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, and those who have been victims of gun violence, as well as other traumas.
I am a dedicated therapist who pushes for success for my clients. Growing up in Chicago, I regularly witnessed individuals with mental health difficulties, addiction issues, and those who were victims of violence. Because of that, I set my goal to be a valuable resource and advocate for anyone who may need guidance or support through their struggles.
My expertise is in providing culturally competent therapy to teens and adults dealing with substance use, anger/stress management, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, and those who have been victims of gun violence, as well as other traumas.
I am a dedicated therapist who pushes for success for my clients. Growing up in Chicago, I regularly witnessed individuals with mental health difficulties, addiction issues, and those who were victims of violence. Because of that, I set my goal to be a valuable resource and advocate for anyone who may need guidance or support through their struggles.
ACT, CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing help you manage substance use.
Struggling with alcohol or drug use can feel discouraging and isolating. You might be hiding your use, unsure how bad it really is, or frustrated by the cycle of starting over. Maybe you’re trying to cut back, get sober, or just feel more in control. You want peace of mind, healthier habits, and a version of life that doesn’t feel like survival mode. Whether you’re managing stress, navigating a relapse, or simply wondering if you need help—this is a safe, judgment-free place to start making changes.
ACT, CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing help you manage substance use.
Struggling with alcohol or drug use can feel discouraging and isolating. You might be hiding your use, unsure how bad it really is, or frustrated by the cycle of starting over. Maybe you’re trying to cut back, get sober, or just feel more in control. You want peace of mind, healthier habits, and a version of life that doesn’t feel like survival mode. Whether you’re managing stress, navigating a relapse, or simply wondering if you need help—this is a safe, judgment-free place to start making changes.
Other areas of experience include trauma & substance use.
Alexi is a queer clinician and sex therapist with a deep passion for guiding individuals, couples, and fellow professionals on their journeys of self-discovery, authenticity, and personal growth. Their ideal clients are those who seek to explore their LGBTQIA+ identity, enhance their sexuality and sexual wellness, heal from trauma, address eating disorders, and understand neurodivergence. Alexi employs a holistic approach, combining evidence-based practices with personalized interventions to empower and uplift their clients.
Other areas of experience include trauma & substance use.
Alexi is a queer clinician and sex therapist with a deep passion for guiding individuals, couples, and fellow professionals on their journeys of self-discovery, authenticity, and personal growth. Their ideal clients are those who seek to explore their LGBTQIA+ identity, enhance their sexuality and sexual wellness, heal from trauma, address eating disorders, and understand neurodivergence. Alexi employs a holistic approach, combining evidence-based practices with personalized interventions to empower and uplift their clients.
I have assisted clients in managing the challenges chronic health conditions can present, and I am also familiar with treating substance use disorders utilizing mindfulness-based sobriety and motivational interviewing techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
I have assisted clients in managing the challenges chronic health conditions can present, and I am also familiar with treating substance use disorders utilizing mindfulness-based sobriety and motivational interviewing techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town Triangle
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Nearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.
How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.
How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.
Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.